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Core stems were used with the Apollo Lunar Surface Drill (ALSD) to take long core samples of the lunar regolith. Core stem tubes were joined together during the drilling process to obtain samples up to 94 inches in length. Up to five upper core stems could be joined to the lower core stem which had the drill bit attached. Once filled, cores stems were removed with lunar soil inside and the ends were capped for return to Earth.

This particular core stem was used for Apollo 17 training. NASA transferred it to the Smithsonian in 1974.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

EQUIPMENT-Lunar

Manufacturer

Martin Marietta Aerospace

Dimensions

3-D: 42.5 × 2.5cm (16 3/4 × 1 in.)

Materials

Titanium alloy A1-4V

Inventory Number

A19810901000

Credit Line

Transferred from the NASA - Johnson Space Center

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.